Biomechanical Effects of Modulating Pedaling Configurations on a Tilted-Plane Ergometer

Excessive coronal or axial plane moments in lower extremity joints are commonly linked to musculoskeletal injuries. However, deliberately inducing such moments can be advantageous in personalized rehabilitation by addressing specific biomechanical needs. The tilted-plane ergometer, designed to tilt the pedaling plane and adjust pedal orientation, facilitates desired limb alignment during pedaling. This study examined changes in joint dynamics, and muscle activity across various ergometer configurations using a musculoskeletal modeling approach. Five participants performed pedaling tasks under four distinct configurations, with data collected via a motion capture system and a force-torque sensor integrated into the pedal. Configurations favoring abducted pedaling planes reduced knee adduction moments and increased ankle abduction moments, while axial rotation moments were modulated through targeted pedal orientations. Conversely, adducted pedaling planes combined with inverted pedal orientations significantly increased internal rotation moments at the knee and ankle, alongside inducing posterior directional forces at the hip and ankle joints. Estimated muscle activity varied across configurations, demonstrating the device's adaptability in targeting specific biomechanics. These findings underscore the potential of the tilted-plane ergometer to effectively modulate joint biomechanics, positioning it as a promising tool for personalized rehabilitation interventions.